Flood mitigation project set to begin in Orange County neighborhood devastated by Hurricane Ian

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Flood mitigation project set to begin in Orange County neighborhood devastated by Hurricane Ian

Orange County is set to begin a flood mitigation project in the Orlo Vista community.

Earlier this week construction crews began mobilizing resources and delivering materials in preparation for the project.

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The work is being done adjacent to the Oak Crest Mobile Home Park and Westside Manor neighborhoods, officials said.

The Orlo Vista area experienced significant flooding last year after Hurricane Ian brought historic levels of rain.

The neighborhood is no stranger to heavy flooding, in 2017, torrential rain from Hurricane Irma caused severe flooding as well.

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“This project will increase the volume capacity of all three neighboring ponds and will ultimately improve the level of service being provided to the Orlo Vista neighborhood,” said Liliana Ramirez, Assistant Project Manager, Orange County Public Works Stormwater Management Division.

Orlo Vista residents are invited to an informational meeting on March 21 to learn more about the work being completed. The meeting will be held at 7 p.m. at the Orlo Vista Chamber of Commerce located at 38 South Hastings Street.

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According to Orange County officials, the project scope of work includes excavating and reshaping three existing stormwater ponds to increase flood mitigation volume. A new 48″ force main will move the water out of the area and into Shingle Creek.

New pumps and pipes will also be installed to lower pond water levels, creating additional capacity prior to a major rainfall event.

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Funding from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the House and Urban Development (HUD) has been used to bring this project together.

VIDEO: Work begins on $23M Orlo Vista flood mitigation project Work begins on $23M Orlo Vista flood mitigation project

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